[pyrite]

I've read about them, but I've never tried either, nor have I tasted the effects of such additions, have you?  
What are the differences / similarities between the hop back and randall hop additions?


The Hop back:
http://www.deerislandbrewery.com/projects.html

The Randall:
http://www.maltosefalcons.com/clubgear/hash-back-aka-moormanator

[tschmidlin]

Hop back additions are pre-fermentation, pre-chiller, when the wort is still warm.
A Randall is post fermentation, post keg, on the way to the glass.

They're really different.  The hop back addition is more like a flavor/aroma addition, the Randall is more like dry-hopping.

[hoser]

Why not both?  I know it is not a DIY project, but the Blichmann Hop Rocket can be used for both functions.  Cost difference will probably be nominal after you factor in parts and labor.

http://www.blichmannengineering.com/HopRocket/HopRocket.html

[violaleebrews]

agreed, very different products, but they seem to be aimed at the same goal - intensified hop flavor/aroma.  how different is the final product (in the glass)?

[phillamb168]

agreed, very different products, but they seem to be aimed at the same goal - intensified hop flavor/aroma.  how different is the final product (in the glass)?

I just bought one (OOPS - Damn you, internet!) and hopefully it'll get here next week. I plan on using it for both purposes, and am curious about how best to configure the lines for randallizing. Anybody have suggestions?

Either way I'll let you know. The price was reasonable for a Blichmann product.